IELTS FAQ

Details

Last Updated: Sunday, 30 April 2017 17:34

Written by IELTS Mentor

Hits: 19373

The IELTS FAQ section tries to answer all the questions that candidates might be wondering to know. We really appreciate your visit to the IELTS FAQ section. Try to find the answers of your questions from the questions & answers listed below and email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for any further query or for the questions that are not listed here.

If you cannot find a question and the corresponding answer of it related to IELTS Exam from the below listed FAQs, email us to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. We will add this question with a details answer in this section and that would be beneficial for others as it would save them for further frustration. We also recommend you to visit the official website of British council (http://www.britishcouncil.org ) & IELTS (http://www.ielts.org ) for more details and recent changes in the IELTS Exam.

What is IELTS?

IELTS stands for International English Language Testing System. IELTS exam is designed to assess the readiness of candidates to study or train in further or higher education courses held in English at college or university. IELTS provides a profile of a candidate's English proficiency. The profile contains not only an indication of a candidate's ability in a particular module but also an indication of overall ability.

IELTS is recognised by universities and employers in many countries, including Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the USA. It is also recognised by professional bodies, immigration authorities and other government agencies.

For you, the IELTS score is a proof of your English proficiency in general. IELTS is recognised worldwide and that's why if you have a good IELTS score, you can use this certificate as proof of your proficiency of handling English as a second language.

Who owns the IELTS test?

IELTS is owned and administered by the following organisations:University of Cambridge ESOL Exams, The British Council, IDP Education Australia & IELTS Australia.

These organisations set the exam standard, maintain the IELTS exam, monitor the standard, review and change the exam format and everything related to the IELTS exam.

What is the purpose of the IELTS?

The purpose of the IELTS exam is to test the candidates' ability of handling English language who want to study or work in a country where English is the language of communication. IELTS result is also necessary for the immigration purposes.

Each year millions of people take the IELTS exam to achieve a score that would prove their English language proficiency. IELTS is one of the most widely accepted international exams. IELTS exam is available for students and immigration applicants to demonstrate their English language proficiency for specific purposes.

Not necessarily you will get admission to a foreign country or get a visa to live there because of your IELTS score. But the college/ University you are going to apply or the immigrant authority would ask for an accepted proof of your English skill and your IELTS score your serve the purpose.

What are the two types of IELTS?

IELTS test is available in two formats – Academic and General Training.

» Academic Module is suitable for those who are going to apply for further studies and professional registration. If you are planning to get admitted in undergraduate or post graduate course at a college or university where English is necessary, you should take the Academic IELTS test. In fact, your university would ask your academic IELTS score and the General Training IELTS score might not be accepted for this purpose.

» General Training Module is appropriate for those who are going to English-speaking countries to complete work experience and training programs or for immigration purposes. General training IELTS tests the candidates' communication skill, which is needed for people who is not a native English speaker and want to migrate to a country where English is the language of communication.

The university or the immigration authority who will be receiving your papers can tell you in prior which form of IELTS you are required to complete. So, if you have any confusion, contacting the corresponding authority would be the best thing to do.

Should I take IELTS Academic or GT Module exam?

The IELTS Academic Module exam is intended for those who want to study in an English-speaking country or where the medium of communication is English, as well as for medical professionals who want to practice abroad.

The IELTS General Module exam is for those who want to emigrate to Australia, Canada or New Zealand, undergo practical vocational training, or do a work placement. Before you register we strongly advise you to check directly with the institution you are doing the test for. It is your responsibility to choose the module that suits your purpose.

Consider the fact that, you need an academic IELTS score (as the name implies) to get admitted in an academic (be it a college or university). For general training or immigration purposes, you would require the General Training IELTS score.

If you have an academic IELTS score that would be usually accepted for immigration or training purposes as well. But GT IELTS score might not be accepted by the college/ university authority where you are planning to complete your undergraduate or postgraduate studies.

It is advisable to contact the appropriate authority who would be processing your papers (admission/ training or immigration) to be sure which version if IELTS you are required to sit.

What are the differences between Academic and GT version of IELTS?

The Academic Version of IELTS is designed and therefore intended for those who want to get themselves admitted in universities or any other higher educational institutes for undergraduate and postgraduate courses and for professionals who want to study or practice in an English-speaking country.

The General Training (GT) IELTS is intended for those who are willing to gain work experience, undertake non-academic training or for immigration purposes.

The listening and speaking sections are exactly same both for the academic and General training IELTS candidates. The reading and writing sections differ. For academic IELTS candidates, the reading passages are longer and are generally related to academic reading. On the contrary, the GT readings are designed to test the general instruction, basic reading ability. In writing part, the academic candidates need to write a report or summary from a given chart, graph or diagram whereas the General Training candidates need to write an application on real life issues.

What are the 4 sections of IELTS?

There are 4 sections or modules in IELTS: Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking. All candidates take the same Listening and Speaking tests, but Reading and Writing tests vary depending on whether a candidate is taking the Academic IELTS test or the General Training IELTS test.

The Academic Reading test examines the candidates' ability to read and extract specific information from the reading materials. The reading passages are generally of academic interests and are designed to test how well the candidates would be able to conduct their academic reading where skimming and finding information, understanding themes of reading are necessary.

The General Training Reading module tests candidates' ability to find specific instructions or information from reading materials which are generally found in everyday life.

The Academic Writing tests candidates' ability to write a summary of a given illustration and the ability to write an essay on a given issue. The presentation, writing pattern, logic, coherence and relevancy etc. are tested in writing task two (essay writing).

The General Training Writing examines the test takers skill on writing letters, applications as well as essay writing ability.

Note that the writing task two i.e. essay writing is same both for the academic and GT test takers.

The Listening part test examinees' ability to understand the language and then recall the information heard.

The Speaking part tests the candidates' ability to introduce themselves, talk about known issues, giving details of their background, discussing in details about general, social and international issues of common interest, the vocabulary, fluency and overall speaking skill.

Which countries accept the IELTS Score?

IELTS is accepted as the standard international test system for English language proficiency by a whole range of institutions. These include the majority of all education establishments operating in English in Australia, Canada, the UK and New Zealand. US educational institutions are also now starting to use it. Many international immigration services also use the IELTS as well as various professional organisations including the British and Australian Medical Councils and the UK Ministry of Defence.

In most of the countries where university courses are offered in English or people speak English to communicate, IELTS score is accepted as a proof of your English proficiency. Many European countries where English in not the first or even second language would ask for IELTS to get admitted in a university or college that offers courses in English.

Simply consider the fact that, IELTS is a test that demonstrates a candidate's English proficiency and this exam and its score is accepted worldwide wherever you need to show a proof of your English skill.

What is the computer-based IELTS test?

The computer-based version of IELTSis an alternative of paper-and-pencil based IELTS exam. This test is also called CB IELTS and this was introduced in May 2005. You can sit for any of the two types. However, computer based IELTS is only available for academic modules at selected centres only. To find out, if your nearby test centre offers the computer-based IELT, you will need to contact them.

The Reading and Listening modules in CB IELTS are conducted in a Computer and the writing module can be done in a computer or in a paper based on candidate's preference. However, the speaking module would still be administered the way it had been, i.e. face-to-face interview session with an examiner.

What is the minimum age requirement for IELTS?

IELTS is recommended for candidates over the age of 16. In other word, to take the IELTS test a candidate must be 16 years old or over.

For how long the IELTS test result is valid?

Generally, a Test Report Form (TRF) or IELTS result is valid for 2 years. However, there are other factors to determine the validity period. But usually you should consider your IELTS score valid for 2 years and if your IELTS Report Form is older than 2 years, you should consider sitting for the exam again to get another TRF form to send to your University or immigration authority.

What can I do if I am not satisfied with my results?

You might apply for an inquiry on results (EoR) procedure within six weeks from the date you took the IELTS exam, using a prescribed form by the IELTS authority if you are dissatisfied with the result you got. The application for re-examining the score needs you to fill the form which must be paid prior to the processing of the appeal. The fees may vary depending on the countries and IELTS centres. Then your result will be re-examined and if necessary will be corrected.

How long does the IELTS exam take?

The IELTS examination takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to complete. The time schedules for the reading, writing and listening sections are fixed but for the speaking section that may vary.

Reading and Writing sections each one takes 1 hour. The listening test takes 30 minutes. The speaking part usually lasts for 15 minutes but there is no fixed time limit for the interview or speaking section. you can expect to finish the speaking module in 15-20 minutes.

How much does it cost to take IELTS?

The cost of the IELTS exam is not fixed. It is set by test centres. Fees may vary depending on the countries and test centres. On an average, the cost is approximately GBP 140. You can find the exact fees from the official IELTS website by locating your nearby test centre from http://www.ielts.org/test_centre_search/search_results.aspx

Can IELTS be an alternative to TOEFL?

The answer isYES and NO. Both the IELTS and TOEFL are designed to evaluate the test takers English skill for academic and communication purposes. Though the exam formats of these two exams are similar, there are few differences as well. You can take either TOEFL or IELTS if the college or university you are going to apply accepts either one. If they have any strict requirement for TOEFL, your IELTS score won’t be accepted. But in practice, most of the colleges, universities and immigration authorities accept both of these exams.

It is commonly known that USA universities prefer TOEFL score whereas European and other universities accept both. But recently the USA has agreed to recognise IELTS and accept either IELTS or TOEFL for admission purposes and hence they will accept both the exams. However, there are still some institutes and universities those want a TOEFL score and do not accept IELTS. For an updated list of the universities those accept IELTS, please visit www.ielts.org

To be on safe side, double check with your university or immigration authority before sitting for an exam.

Where are the IELTS test centres?

IELTS test centres can be found in almost all of the countries including yours. If you have seen a British Council, idp or ESOL Examination office somewhere in your locality, you can get details from there. Select your country name and the city you live in, it will show all of the IELTS test centres around your locality. Currently, there are more than 900 test centres present in 130 different countries.

What is the pass/ fail mark in IELTS?

In IELTS exam there is no pass or fail. IELTS results are prepared on a nine-band scale. In addition to the score for overall language ability, IELTS provides a score in the form of a profile for each of the four skills i.e. Listening, Reading, Writing and speaking. If you attend the IELTS exam and compete it, you will be given a report of the result that would include individual band score of the four module as well as the Average band score. This band score would reflect your skill and ability of handling English language.

( Don't worry if you do not know the Country and Language code. You can find it from the help desk of the test centre or browse the country codes from IELTS Registration Country Code )

The above-mentioned materials and papers are usually required for the IELTS exam registration. However, the requirement might change and you should always contact the local IELTS authority before going there for registration. They can give you the details of the requirement for IELTS registration. Check the list and make sure you have all the necessary papers and materials for the registration.

What happens if I'm unable to appear for the IELTS test?

Don't take the IELTS exam like one of your class tests where you can contact your course teacher or administrative officer and sit for the exam at an alternative schedule. IELTS tests are pre-scheduled and you won't get an alternative exam schedule if you miss your exam.

There are some unavoidable reasons that might hinder you to take part in the exams and If you fail to appear for the IELTS test, you will be treated as a 'No Show' candidate by the IELTS exam authority. No refunds will be possible for a 'no shows' candidate.However, there are some special circumstances under which your application may be considered with some conditions. Acceptance of your form is subject to approval by the test centre and if you can't give a strong reason with supporting papers you won't get any refund.

In which Countries IELTS exam is taken?

The IELTS test is taken every year across 130 countries and the number is rapidly growing. It is not far away when all of the countries of the world would have IELTS test centres. To find the complete list click in «IELTS CENTERS». It is one of the fastest growing English language tests in the world, and sets the standard in integrity, research and innovation and that's why candidates from all around the globe are taking this exam.

Can a native English speaker take the IELTS exam?

Yes, a candidate who speaks English as the primary language can sit for the IELTS exam. There is no restriction imposed on that.

If you are a native English speaker and studied your previous degrees from institutions where English was used as part of the academic practice, you can be exempted to supply the IETLS score to the intended university/ college or in immigration offices. Contact to the university or college you are going to get admitted or contact to the immigration office to be sure if you need this test to prove your English skill or not.

Is there any special consideration in IELTS exam for the disable candidates?

IELTS aims to assess the English language communication skills of all test takers fairly and objectively. The IELTS test centres can make arrangements to accommodate special circumstances or requirements to enable test takers to attend a test centre, and to understand questions and tasks and give their answers. Test centres require three months’ notice to put special arrangements in place. Generally, some special circumstances are considered like,Visual difficulties, Hearing difficulties, Illness.

If you are genuinely ill on the day of the exam or during the test you should let the test supervisor know. Special consideration may be given to test takers who report their illness on the day of the test. Like all other standard exam centres, there might be some limitations on the facilities offered.

When will I get my IELTS result?

The IELTS test center will produce the result after 13 calendar days of the test. At some centers candidates may collect their results on the 13th day from the test centers or it is mailed to candidates on the 13th day.

Most candidates now collect their IELTS result from the internet. However, test centers do not give results to the candidates over the phone or by fax or e-mail. In some countries the result is sent via SMS to the number the candidate has given while registering for the test.

Can I make some notes on the Listening & Reading question paper?

Yes, you can. The examiner will not see your question papers. You can take notes like a date, a place name or other important keywords that might help you answering your listening or reading exams questions. However, DO NOT write or mark on the answer sheet.

Be careful about what you write on the questions papers. After the exam you are not allowed to take the exam papers with you. You need to submit your questions papers along with your answer sheet.

Does the IELTS test differ in various parts of the world?

IELTS is a global standard test. It does not assess candidates from different geographical location differently. However, the questions may vary depending on the test locations or centres. But the IELTS authority strictly maintains the standard and questions format in all location. You are likely to get a different question set for a different geographic location but the standard of the questions, test and evaluation would be same.

There are some misconceptions that certain test centers' exams are easy compared to others, a native examiner would be hard to convince in speaking exam ... etc. But don't bother about these misconceptions and strictly focus on your exam preparation.

Can I take the IELTS exam more than once?

Yes, you can take the IELTS exam as many times as you want. Even if you have got a decent band score and the score has its validity, and you expect to get a higher score, you can sit for the IELTS exam once again at your convenient.

Few years back there was a restriction on sitting for the exam second time within a prescribed duration, but this is no longer applicable and you can sit for your IELTS exam as many times as you want. Each exam would require you to register for it and there is no waiver if you have taken the exam previously.

Will my previous IELTS score affect my new score?

No, your previous IELTS score will not affect your new IELTS score. You do not need to bother about your previous score if you are sitting for the IELTS a second time. Your score would be given as if you are sitting for the IELTS first time. In your Report Form (result), previous score won't be mentioned.

What happens if a candidate is absent on the IELTS test date?

If a candidate is absent on the day of the IELTS test s/he will be treated as a 'No Show' candidate. S/he will not get any result and if s/he was absent without giving prior notice, will normally lose the full test fee unless he/she provides appropriate medical evidence to the centre to explain the absence. Medical evidence must be provided within 5 days of the test.

What if I become ill during the IELTS test?

If you get seriously ill during the test, you should report it to the test supervisor immediately. Then the test center will take special care about the situation and might give special consideration. No consideration or favour is possible if it is not brought to the attention of the test supervisor.

Your test is important so report to the test supervisor as soon as you feel sick and you might get a favour.

How soon can I repeat the IELTS test?

From May 1, 2006, the policy on candidates re-taking IELTS has been amended. According to this new policy, a candidate can re-take exam anytime s/he likes. The restriction on re-taking IELTS within 90 days has been removed and candidates are able to repeat the test whenever they wish.

Please note that, you will still be asked to indicate on your application form whether you have taken the IELTS test before or not. This information will not appear on the Test Report Form (TRF) and will only be used for monitoring purposes. So you can take the IELTS exam whenever you wish.

Can I leave the Exam room during my IELTS exam?

No, you are not permitted to leave the test room during the examination in normal circumstances. You should be prepared not to leave the exam room during the test. The time is very crucial in your test.

However, if there is an emergency or special circumstance when you have to go out, just explain it to your test supervisor. You won't be given any extra time in IELTS exam.

Can I get a better score at an IELTS test centre than at others?

Absolutely NOT! IELTS officials use many means to ensure standardisation of Band Scores throughout the world. Of course, it could be true that taking IELTS in an English speaking country is beneficial, but only because you are being exposed to English every day not because taking the test there would give you any privilege regarding the exam.

IELTS questions, tests and result standards are strictly maintained all over the world.

Focus on your preparation and improve your English skill, you will get a high band score from your nearby test centre.

Can I use a driving license/student ID card as a proof of my identity?

NO, driving licenses and student identity cards are not acceptable forms of identification for the IELTS registration and test. Candidates must have a valid passport or accepted identity card like Social Security Card, National ID card to register for the IELTS exam. The ID document specified on the application form has to be brought along on the test day.

Please note that Non-EU nationals must carry their passport as a proof of their identity.

Using the Passport is the best form of presenting your identification.

What can I do if I want to postpone or cancel my application?

If you request a postponement or cancellation of your IELTS test within 5 weeks of the test date, you'll normally be charged the full fee. You should not expect any refund from the test centre but notifying would save you from marked as a 'No Show' Candidate.

If the reason is strong enough and you are able to provide appropriate papers, medical evidence to support your request within 5 days of the test date, the test authority might return you a partial refund.

How IELTS is scored?

IELTS results are prepared on a nine-band scale. In addition to the score for overall language ability, IELTS provides a score in the form of a profile for each of the four skills (Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking). These scores are also reported on a nine-band scale. Each Overall Band Score corresponds to a descriptive statement which gives a summary of the English language ability of a candidate classified at that level. The nine bands and their descriptive statements are as follows:

9 Expert User Has fully operational command of the language: appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding.8 Very Good User Has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and in appropriates. Handles complex detailed argumentation well.7 Good User Has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriateness and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.6 Competent User Has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriates and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.5 Modest User Has a partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. The candidate should be able to handle communication in his or her own field.4 Limited User Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in using complex language.3 Extremely Limited User Conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.2 Intermittent User No real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet immediate needs. Has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.1 Non User Essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words.0 Did not Attempt The test No accessible information provided.

Add comment

Comments

Hi, it seems that recently, the awarded band scores for writing have suffered a dramatic decrease, especially regarding the general module. I was wondering whether the writing examiners are native English speakers, as this would cast light on the issue.

Hi, I just got my IELTS results with an overall 8.5 (L & R: 9, S: 8.5, W: 7). I want to retake the test again, but I'm afraid I get a lower mark in the individual section as I need min 8 in each. So, can I resit for the exam and then if the new results are lower I can provide them with my older test results? Please get back to me ASAP Admin. This is Urgent. Thank you.

Hello, are there any specific topic for GT writing test? I heard from somewhere that GT students do not need to prepare topics like space research etc. Could you please list some topics which IELTS GT candidates should not prepare? Thanks.

Hi Friends, I am Sandeep Sharma, had completed IELTS examinations thrice and secured 8 bands with (S-7.5, S-7.5, S-8), I am currently focusing giving paid online speaking tips & strategies (at nominal charges) to serious students only. Who actually required that extra bit of polishing when it comes on 'how to exactly deliver' in an interview. Interested people can either mail me on 'ssharma1282@gmail' under the subject IELTS MENTOR or PM/Whatsapp me at +91 9646361282.

I would like to know, if we take IELTS a second time, do our first IELTS results are still taken into account if we get lower results at our second test? If I got, for example, 7 at my first test, and I get 6 at the second, can I send my first results and not the second ones to the university that I'm applying? Thank you for understanding.

Hello, I have attempted IELTS around 4 times in one year time in order to get 8 in listening and 7 in the remaining categories but I have been falling short of 0.5 in all attempts, which is not allowing me to qualify in the Canadian express entry system. In my last test, I got W:8, S:8, L:7.5 and R:6.5. Is there any policy of IELTS, that they should check my previous attempts in which I got 9 in reading once and 8 in listening and grant me the score I need? Thanks!

Hi, I've recently taken the IELTS for UKVI, however, I did not meet the required band score of 7 in writing L:9, R:7.5, W:6.5, S:7. So I'm planning to take the exam again but this time just the regular IELTS. My question is can I combine and present both results to apply in the UK? Thanks.

Hi, I gave my IELTS and got the required band. However, now I am applying for re-issuing of my passport due to address change and thus I will be issued a new passport with a new passport number. Does this mean I have to give IELTS again provided my score is valid as I gave the test last month only?

Hi, I have just received my IELTS results and I have got 6.5 in reading and 7 in others. I require 7 in all modules. Is there any possibility I can only give my reading exam? or do I have to appear for all the tests again?

Hi, I have just received my IELTS results and I have got 6.5 in reading and 7 in others. I require 7 in all modules. Is there any possibility I can only give my reading exam? or do I have to appear for all the tests again?

Hi, I want to club 2TRF score for New Zealand immigration, but unfortunately, I choose 2 different languages as my first language (English-firstTRF/ Malayalam-2TRF). Please let me know if there is any problem with this?

I am asking this on behalf of a friend. He took the IELTS test and scored 6.2, can this be used as a FIRST DEGREE or would this be recognised as a FIRST DEGREE, if he is willing to apply for an opportunity in British Council itself or still a graduate certificate is required. Also, can this score be used for applying elsewhere also if he does not have a graduate certificate? TIA.

Hi Shiva, The score 6.2 is not possible in IELTS. It has to be either 6.0 or 6.5. Assuming that this was a typo, we would like to say that IELTS test result has nothing to do with the situation whether someone has completed his graduation or not. It is an English assessment test and could be used to prove a candidate's ability to handle the language in general. To directly answer your question, NO, it cannot be used as a FIRST degree. Someone who has completed 12th grades and has a good IELTS score would be able to get admitted in an undergrad course in a college/ university. Someone with this score and his graduation degree can apply for Masters degree and so on. This score can also be used for migration purposes as well.

Hi, my IELTS exam result has just appeared today, I got 8.5 L, 9 R, 7.5 W and 6.5 S, overall 8. My question is how likely would the appeal thing affect my speaking score if I applied to that? Knowing that my last exam I got 7.5 in speaking. A awaiting your reply. Thanks in advance.

Appeal for reevaluation only if you are confident that your speaking exam was far better than the score you got. Do not appeal only because you got 7.5 last time as it has nothing to do with the score you got this time!

I have my test on 11th February 2017. I have not mentioned any university name/address for sending my TRF while booking the date. Is it still possible to send the test scores to any 5 institutions free of cost after test results are out? If so what will be the procedure? Please get me information. Thanks.

Hi Hafiz, We would like you to contact the official test centre where you have booked your IELTS exam for this information. They would be able to give you the exact answer. Their policy might change from time to time and this is why it is not safe to answer this type of question where the sole decision maker is the IETLS authority. For some useful information please browse:

Hi! I scored 8 in three skills and 7.5 in writing skill. But I believe I should have been awarded a better score in it. Therefore I want it to be remarked. The problem is that I want to submit my IELTS for Australian qualification assessment and the rechecking takes around 8 weeks and I can't wait that long. So my QUESTION is that does my existing score stay valid for online confirmation of validation unless the new result or does it gets temporarily invalid? It's urgent. So please help me out here admin. And will this new TRF pose an issue for visa proceedings?

Your result will remain valid, not withheld. When you resubmit your TRF to the Australian immigration authority, do mention that your result was reassessed and you were provided with a new TRF. That should not be a problem.

Hi, my name is Vikas and I am from India. I had a doubt regarding retaking the IELTS test. If I got a low score on the second attempt when compare to the previous one, what will happen? Can I use my first IELTS score?

I am confused regarding the validity of IELTS Test. I read on websites that it is from the date of the test but I sent an email to British Council Pakistan and they replied that it is from the day of the result. My IELTS Exam date was 14/3/2015 and the date at the bottom of the form with the stamp is 26/3/2015. Please let me know which one to write when I apply for PLAB Exam as otherwise, I will need to appear again because of just a lapse of 2 days as the Exam date is 16/3/2017.

Hello, everyone! I have passed my IELTS test last year and got overall score 6.0 ( what was enough for me current study ), but the university which I want to join next year requires 6.0 for every part of the test ( not only overall ) Unfortunately, I have 5.5 for two parts of the test and 6.0 for another two. My question is: Is it possible to retake only two parts of the test instead of all tests?

Hi, I just took my first UKVI this day. And I think I failed in my listening. My module is academic and I think I only failed on that part. My target band score is 7. Is it ok to retake it and get band 7 to listening and rest 6.5?

Sir/Madam, Unfortunately due to insufficient time, I did not answer some questions in reading module and I left it blank. Do this effect in the result? Like getting 0 band score in reading module just because I didn't answer some questions?

I have specified that my first language is English, based on the fact that I have been taught in English throughout schools and have given the test yesterday. But now when I check, I realized that I should have specified Telugu, which is my mother language. Will this have any negative impact on the score I receive?

I have an IELTS score of 8 but I was very unwell on the day I took it. The University I'm applying to is a pain in the neck. I want to get a 9 or an 8.5, I scored badly on the listening part because of my groggy head. Assuming I get less than 8, can I send my previous score? The University wants it directly from the IELTS office, will they be able to send the previous one? Instead of the last one?

Unfortunately I need to get overall 7.5 with each band score more than 7.0 in order to get 10 point in Australian immigration process. Actually, I am a bit deaf and have to wear hearing aid tool. Do anyone know the Australian immigration process consider some exception for people with physical disability?

I would like to know, if we take IELTS a second time, do our first IELTS results are still taken in account if we get lower results at our second test? If I got, for example, 7 at my first test, and I get 6 at the second, can I send my first results and not the second ones ?Thank you for understanding.

Hi, I have secured 7.5 Bandscore in IELTS already and my total score for Canada PR is 464. However, the Score for last 6 months has not gone below 470 and is mostly in the range of 490 and above. I wanted to appear for IELTS again to secure higher Band so that my overall score for Canada PR gets better. But I don't know whether my existing band of 7.5 will be valid if I score less than 7.5 this time??

Hello, my IELTS exam is on the day after tomorrow and now I'm only worried about the speaking module as I stammer. Do you have any suggestion regarding it? And btw, I have already given them a medical certificate for my disability. Thank you.

Hi, I've recently given the IELTS test and scoredS-7.5 , L-7 , R-6 ,W-5.5, Overall- 6.5. Will it meet the minimum criteria for universities or I have to re-appear for the same? Moreover, I am a graduate in computer science & engineering and scored 70% in my graduation, and am looking forward to Post graduation in Canada. So please guide me accordingly whether this IELTS score will be enough to apply or I should give it again??

Dear Ashish, The minimum IELTS Score requirement varies from university to university. Sometimes the same university will ask for different IELTS scores based on the department/subject someone seeking to get admitted. So there is no straightforward answer to your question. While some university would be happy to accept you with the score you already have, others will ask for more. The best way to confirm is to check with the universities individually.

Hello! I took the IELTS on the 27th of September 2014. My results were out on the 12th of October 2014. My query is if the validity period of 2 years of the TRF is from the date I took up the test (27 Sep. 2014) or from the date my result was announced (12 Oct. 2014) ?? I request you to confirm this ASAP as I am running out of time in order to submit my CDR for Australia. Regards!!

Simply put it that way - There is no provision for combining any score in any way you want. You take a test and the band score for this test has nothing to do with other IELTS tests you had previously taken or will take in the future.

It is really difficult to answer this as the requirement would depend on the immigration authority and the educational institutes. However, generally, the GT IELTS is required for studying diploma programme. Please consult with the institute you are planning to get enrolled in.

Hi, I took the IELTS exam on 30th of July but for quality control my results were not out. Finally, yesterday I received an email where the English centre noticed me about my results. Now the problem is: where can I find them? The system doesn't show results over 29 days and nobody replies to my e-mails. Can you help me? Thank you.

It is not compulsory. However, if you have not got any notification yet, we would advise you to contact the registration centre ASAP, just to be assured that everything is okay with your IELTS registration. Best of luck Haris.

I took my IELTS exam last week I am waiting to receive my results. But if I fail, can I take it again before that bad score is sent to the university??? Cause nex month, September 3, I have other change and I am thinking to book it if I fail.

Sir/Madam, Good day! I would like to ask what is meant by "Combined scores from different tests is not acceptable"? Is it referring to every section/component of the test or is it about combined scores in the different sitting? Thank you so much.

I have attempted idp IELTS and scored 6.5 overall. Now I want to improve and go through the British Council. Will both my test result remain valid? Can I show my first result in immigration if later one has a low score?

I have taken my IELTS GT from Dammam. The location was in novotel hotel dammam. During the listening test, they did not provide headphones. There was a speaker system and it was not easy to hear for those who practiced using headphones. What quality of exam is provided by British Council Globally???

S-8, R-9, W-7.5, L-8. I need a min 8 in all components to get 20 points for the PR application. I remember reading somewhere that if I give the exam again, I can possibly use the best of the component marks from each test and combine them to be considered for my application. Like, if I repeat and get an 8 in all modules except listening for instance, then is it possible that my test results be submitted as a combination of both the attempts making my final submitted grades as 8 in all components. Is it true? I am applying for Australian PR.Secondly, The test validity was 2 years the last time checked, but someone told me they have now extended the validity to 3 years. Is this true?

In fact, the number of correct answers/ points required to score 7 or 8 in the IELTS listening test will vary from test to test. The score requirement might be determined by the test authority based on the difficulty level of the questions and the highest score achieved by students. As a general rule, you need to get 30- 32 to get 7 bandscore while you will require 34+ points to get 8.

I think you are right; that is the reason. I have just attended IELTS exam in Dubai on 18/06/2016 and it took much time to get my result. Now, the result is showing 0 in all band scores. Why is this happening?

If someone passes the IELTS, why he/she should retake it again after the expiry of two years. It is similar to asking one to take a degree and if the candidate does not get a job within two years, tell him/her to apply to re-take the degree again. Kindly explain the rationale behind? Is it designed to make IELTS richer and the test taker poorer?

I took IELTS about 7 years ago. I have a copy of it, but not the original. Can my employer, through the registered number, be able to check its authenticity or it is out of the data base? Thank you. Regards, Juliana.

I am a student from English department. I will apply for the IELTS test and I am not sure if I'll do good in it. I have no plan to go abroad but I have decided to take it cause it might help me at my university. About IELTS test- if I finish this test, will it be valid for the next 5 years?

I had taken my IELTS exam two weeks ago. However, On my TRF I wrote wrong information. (My first language is Japanese but I have written Korean)!!! Maybe I've ticked the wrong information. How can I solve this problem and get a new Test Report Form?

I am not planning to go abroad. I would like to improve my English speaking, writing and listening skills. I am fed up with the ordinary spoken English courses. Is it good for me to go to the IELTS coaching centre and to take the examination of IELTS?

Dear Asif, We would suggest you to spend your time preparing for the IELTS test rather than taking it quickly. Preparing for the IELTS test alone very quickly will not improve your skill that much, but the time you can invest in getting a high band score would do. Spend 2-4 hours per day on a regular basis.

7.5 means something in between 'good' & 'very good'. Can you imagine someone who is usually good at something but in many cases performs quite excellent, or reversely someone usually very good but not consistent always?

If I get less score in the second attempt of IELTS, can I use my first IELTS result? Actually, the case is I got 7 in all the sections of IELTS in my first attempt, but in the second attempt (to get it increase) I've got less in writing.

Does immigration authorities will consider only the latest result or I can apply with my first score?

If I get less score in the second attempt of IELTS test, can I use my first IELTS result? Actually, the case is I got 7 in all the sections of IELTS in my first attempt, but in the second attempt (to get it increased) I've got less in writing.

Does immigration authorities will consider only the latest result or I can apply with my first score?

Does anyone have any idea if an overall band score 5 in IELTS qualify for an Australian student visa? My band score was - Listening 6, Reading 5, Writing 6, and Speaking 6. Or is it advisable to just sit another IELTS exam? Thanks.

I need to improve my reading skills and for the same, I am seeking for reading materials. May you please advise me what should I do? Should I buy books or go with any online free materials? I am not satisfied with institutes.

Hi there, I am just wondering that in task two of the speaking part, should I answer all the questions? And if I didn't answer them all but I did finish in two minutes, will that affect my score? Thanks.

For the cue card section in Speaking test, you are generally advised to talk about the given topic and cover the questions given on the topic. However, if you speak very fluently on the topic, answering only two questions would not negatively affect your score.

If someone passes the IELTS, why he/she should retake it after the expiry of two years? It is similar to asking one to take a degree and if the candidate does not get a job within two years, tell him/her to apply to retake the degree again. Kindly explain the rationale behind this? Is it designed to make IELTS richer and the test takers poorer?